LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 23 S OUTH Korean latest series, My Demon, has fans of fantasy dramas all excited. The story line revolves around the resilient Do Do-hee (played by the talented Kim Yoo-jung), the CEO of Mirae F&B and her unexpected entanglement with the ancient demon Jeong Gu-won (brought to life by the charismatic Song Kang). The plot takes a thrilling turn when a seemingly ill-fated blind date results in the transfer of Gu-won’s mystical tattoo, the source of his power, to Do-hee. Just as they begin navigating their newfound connection, tragedy strikes with the demise of Do-hee’s adoptive mother and Mirae Group’s formidable leader, Ju Cheon-sook (portrayed by the brilliant Kim Hae-sook). The inheritance of the Mirae empire, contingent upon marriage within a year, sparks a ruthless power struggle among Do-hee and her adoptive siblings, adding layers of intrigue to the narrative. To seize control of her destiny and uncover the truth behind Cheon-sook’s death, Do-hee proposes a strategic marriage to Gu-won. The arrangement is enticing, with Do-hee gaining Mirae and a formidable bodyguard, while Gu-won retains access to his supernatural abilities. The ensuing events form the heart of the series, offering a fresh and distinctive take on the fantasy genre. Throughout the series, Do-hee and Gu-won’s chemistry is a delicate balance of banter, camaraderie and underlying romantic tension. Even during their bickering moments, there is an undeniable charm that emanates from their interactions, making it feel as if you are witnessing the blossoming of a genuine connection. The way they navigate their unusual circumstances and the gradual unveiling of their emotions create a narrative dynamic that keeps viewers eagerly anticipating the next twist in their relationship. What sets this on-screen pairing apart is the authenticity that Yoo-jung and Song Kang bring to their roles. Their portrayal goes beyond scripted lines — it is a nuanced display of subtle glances, shared smiles and unspoken understanding. Song Kang, known for his intense roles, effortlessly transitions into a more carefree character, showcasing a versatility that adds depth to his performance. Kim Yoo-jung, equally adept, brings a blend of grace, confidence and vulnerability to her character, making Dohee relatable and endearing. The romantic elements between Do-hee and Gu-won are woven smoothly into the narrative, adding a layer of emotional resonance to the fantastical storyline. Their on-screen moments, whether filled with laughter, tension or tender exchanges, contribute to the series’ overall appeal. It is a rare feat to witness main leads with such authentic and captivating chemistry and My Demon achieves this with finesse. For enthusiasts of fantasy and romance-infused dramas, My Demon is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The series promises a satisfying blend of suspense, emotion and entertainment, delivering a narrative that defies conventions in the fantasy genre. So, if you are ready to be swept away by the enchanting allure of their connection, dive into the magical world of My Demon, now streaming on Netflix. █ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN The chemistry between the two main leads is amazing. Yoo-jung’s successful transition to adult roles is highly anticipated and well-executed. AFTER the continued success and cultural impact of Disney+’s The Mandalorian, the series will now expand beyond the streaming platform, with the film The Mandalorian and Grogu being announced on Jan 9. The film will be directed and produced by Jon Favreau, along with Kathleen Kennedy and Dave Filoni. The Mandalorian and Grogu will presumably be linked to Filoni’s already announced but untitled film that will combine characters from The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett and Ahsoka to close off their interconnected stories. In the announcement posted on the official Star Wars website, Favreau, who also created The Mandalorian series, claimed that he has always “loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created.” “The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting,” he added. Accompanying the news is that Ahsoka’s second season is currently being developed by Filoni. In a recent episode of Entertainment Weekly’s Dagobah Dispatch podcast, Ahsoka star Rosario Dawson revealed that she is still taking in the positive reception from fans and critics that the first season received. - BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Eun-woo leaves Astro to go solo GET ready for a musical treat as Astro’s Cha Eun-woo embarks on his solo journey. Various news reports have hinted that the K-pop sensation is preparing for the release of his debut solo album. Fantagio, the agency representing Eunwoo, has officially verified that the talented artiste is diligently putting the finishing touches on the album, scheduled to hit the music scene in the first half of 2024. Brimming with enthusiasm, Eun-woo has set his sights on unveiling the muchanticipated tracks from the record at his inaugural fan-con, scheduled to take place at Jamsil Indoor Stadium on Feb 17. This marks a significant milestone for Eunwoo as he embarks on his solo debut, nearly eight years after joining Astro in 2016. His Asia fan-con tour, “2024 Just One 10 Minute”, is set to kick off in Seoul. He has also been busy on the acting front, as he has appeared in the MBC drama A Good Day to Be a Dog and is set to captivate audiences in another MBC drama, Wonderful World, scheduled to premiere in March. - BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Eun-woo set for solo tour amid upcoming drama premiere. – INSTAGRAM/@eunwo.o_c The Mandalorian is being primed for a big screen feature-length film. - Disney+ The Mandalorian set for silver screen debut Magneticromance oYoo-jung and Song Kang’s unforgettable on-screen spark in new Netflix series 0Director: Kim Jang-Hwan 0Cast: Song Kang, Kim Yoo-jung, Lee Sang-yi E-VALUE 8 ACTING 8 PLOT 7 Song Kang and Yoo-jung pair up in Netflix’s My Demon. – PICS BY NETFLIX Compared to Song’s previous roles, Gu-won is more of an energetic leading man in this series.
LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 24 Time-bending drama I N an intriguing adaptation of Sung So-jak’s web novel, Marry My Husband unfolds a gripping narrative centring around Kang Jiwon (Park Min-young). Confronted with a terminal illness, Jiwon stumbles upon the devastating revelation that her best friend, Jung Soomin (Song Ha-yoon), is entangled in an affair with her husband, Park Min-hwan (Lee Yi-kyung). The plot takes a tragic turn when Ji Won falls victim to a murder orchestrated by Min-hwan. However, the tale takes an unexpected twist as Ji-won finds herself transported back a decade into the past. In this alternate timeline, she allies with Yoo Ji-hyeok (Na In-woo), the head of a department in the same company, in a quest for revenge against the betrayal and injustice she endured. Min-young’s portrayal of Ji-won begins with a depiction of a vulnerable patient, but her character undergoes a remarkable transformation after she travels back in time, embracing a mindset of revenge. The confrontation with high school bullies showcases her newfound confidence and her commitment to the role, evident in her physical transformation, is truly commendable. In-woo, as the main lead, dispels initial doubts about his suitability for the role, delivering a performance that Marry My Husband is based on webcomic Nae Nampyeongwa Gyeolhonhaejweo by Seong So Jak. – PICS BY INSTAGRAM/@TVN_DRAMA oMarry My Husband unravels intrigue and revenge █ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Parenting wars husband’s desire to portray himself as the “super dad” even when they are not together, citing instances of perceived competition in parenting. She notes the material extravagances her children experience with Barker and Kardashian, contrasting them with her own more modest lifestyle and expressing concerns about the potential impact on her children. Despite Moakler’s accusations, a representative for Barker has not responded to a media request for comment. Friends of the couple, now parents to baby Rocky Thirteen, assert that Barker and Kardashian are focused on their happiness and not paying attention to Moakler’s claims. Moakler had previously emphasised that her children’s wellbeing and happiness are her top priorities, even if she and Barker only find common ground on this aspect of co-parenting. – BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN (From left) Moakler, Barker and Kardashian have different takes on parenting. – PEOPLE Min young lost over 37kg preparing for her role as cancer patient, Ji-Won. SHANNA MOAKLER, 48, revealed coparenting tensions with ex-Travis Barker on the Dumb Blonde podcast. She alleges “parenting alienation” by Barker, 48 and his new partner, Kourtney Kardashian, 44, asserting that they try to outshine her with shared children – Landon, 20 and Alabama, 18. Moakler, also mom to Atiana, 24, expressed dismay at perceived manipulation, deeming their actions “disgusting”. Moakler highlights her exresonates with viewers. Despite early scepticism, his portrayal aligns perfectly with the character, garnering widespread support from the audience after the first two episodes. A noteworthy twist in the series is Yikyung’s portrayal of the villain, a departure from his usual comedic roles. This shift in his career is well-received, adding an element of unpredictability to the storyline. Thus far, the storyline feels fresh and the initial episodes are remarkably engaging. While the romantic aspect between the leads is subtle in the early episodes, their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, setting the stage for a captivating love story. Beyond the entertainment factor, Marry My Husband carries a poignant message about the perils of blind trust in friendships, urging viewers to remain vigilant about others’ intentions. The upcoming episodes promise a riveting exploration of revenge, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative. As the series unfolds, the anticipation remains high and it is evident that Marry My Husband is poised to become a standout addition to one’s watchlist. With episodes airing every Monday and Tuesday on Amazon Prime Video, this series promises a thrilling and emotionally charged experience for viewers seeking a fresh and captivating storyline. (From left) Yi-kyung and Ha-yoon. In-woo plays Ji-hyeok in the series. IN a delightful Instagram post on Jan 9, Ayumi, formerly of the popular group Sugar, joyfully revealed that she is expecting her first child. Having exchanged vows with her non-celebrity husband in 2022, Ayumi personally delivered the heartwarming announcement, accompanying it with a series of endearing photos. For her inaugural Instagram post of the new year, Ayumi shared the special news with her followers in Korean, expressing her gratitude for the precious new life that is set to join their family. Anticipated to arrive in May of this year, Ayumi reflected on imminent parenthood with both a sense of joy and slight trepidation. Adding a charming touch to the revelation, Ayumi disclosed the “nickname” of the baby as Lucky Eggplant. She playfully recounted a dream in which she picked a delicious eggplant and savoured it, leading to the endearing nickname for her unborn child. – BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Ex-Sugar member Ayumi expecting first child Ayumi is a Japanese-born South Korean singer and actress based in Japan and South Korea. – INSTAGRAM/@iqaymiq 0 Director: Park WonGook 0 Cast: Park Min-young, Song Ha-yoon, Na In-Woo, Lee Yi-kyung E-VALUE 8 ACTING 8 PLOT 9
LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 25 JESSICA Alba recently shared insights into her decision to pursue therapy for herself and her two daughters in an interview for the January and February issues of Real Simple Magazine. The 42-year-old actress and entrepreneur, known for her openness about mental health, recounted a pivotal moment with her daughter, Honor when she was around 11 years old. Frustrated by constant arguments, Alba realised she did not want their relationship to be strained, prompting her to seek professional help. Recognising the need for an unbiased perspective to bridge the communication gap, Alba expressed her desire to be a better parent to Honor. The therapy journey began to make a positive impact, fostering understanding and growth for both mother and daughter. Alba candidly acknowledges that therapy served as a reality check, allowing her to recognise and apologise for her shortcomings. By creating a safe space for Honor to express grievances, Alba discovered that parenting is not always about being right or rational in the moment. She emphasises the natural aspect of children disagreeing with their parents and the importance of navigating these challenges as part of the parenting process. Recognising the ongoing nature of personal development, Alba expresses gratitude for the therapeutic process and the insights gained. Alongside her daughter Honor, Alba shares her parenting journey with two other Joker’s encore Alba in the spotlight DIRECTOR Todd Phillips is getting DC fans all excited by unveiling sneak peaks of the highly anticipated film, Joker: Folie a Deux. The sequel to the Oscar-winning Joker will once again star Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role, with Lady Ga Ga portraying Dr Harleen Quinzel, aka Harley Quinn. The film is set to hit theatres in Oct this year to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the original Joker movie. The 2019 Joker broke boxoffice records and earned critical acclaim, leading to the official confirmation of a sequel in June 2022. Gaga’s involvement was confirmed in the same month, with reports suggesting her portrayal of Harley Quinn would offer a fresh interpretation distinct from Margot Robbie’s previous performances. While the plot of Joker: Folie a Deux remains shrouded in mystery, Phillips has been providing glimpses into the film’s progress through Instagram. From the first day of filming in December 2022 to the conclusion of principal photography in April, Phillips documented the journey, sharing images of Gaga filming scenes in New York City and marking the wrap-up with gratitude for the cast and crew. The sequel, described as a musical, adds an intriguing dimension to the Joker’s narrative. Fans can expect the unexpected as the film explores new facets of the iconic character. – BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ Gaga and Phoenix in Joker: Folie a Deux. – PIC BY TODD PHILLIPS/INSTAGRAM Alba shares three children with husband Warren. – INSTAGRAM/@ JESSICAALBA oHer brave conversation about mental health and motherhood children, Hayes and Haven and her husband, Cash Warren. The interview provides a glimpse into Alba’s commitment to fostering healthy family dynamics through open communication and the pursuit of emotional wellbeing. fresh salmon Yee Sang, Premium New Moon Abalone Gift Sets and a wide selection of beverages”. Among the Lotus’s CNY Pavilion locations in the Klang Valley are Kepong, Ampang, Cheras, Bukit Beruntung, Puncak Alam, IOI City, Puchong, Jenjarom, while in the north, Penang E-Gate, Ipoh Garden, Penang Sg Dua, Bandar Puteri Jaya, Stargate, Manjung, Bertam Perdana, Bagan Ajam, Seri Iskandar, Mergong and in the south, Desa Tebrau, Melaka, Bahau, Parit Raja and in the East Coast, Indera Mahkota. In conjunction with the festivities, Lotus’s Malaysia’s Customer Executive Director Vivian Yap spoke of the shopping rewards for My Lotus’s members, unlocking and enjoying year-long savings with exclusive vouchers totaling more than RM3.8 million, in addition to points earned when they shop with the retailer both instore, online and at their food courts. In addition, members will also receive six personalized product coupons monthly until December 2024. The new sign-ups to its loyalty programme will also enjoy four discount coupons on the first month of signing up as members. Augmented Reality (AI also offers shoppers an interactive experience, to spot its “Looong Long Dragon” in 62 malls, throughout Malaysia from Jan 11 to Feb 24. Using their own digital devices, shoppers can scan the QR code provided, and follow simple steps to catch the dragon in the many locations within its malls to enjoy more saving vouchers from its participating tenants. Towards Lotus’s commitment to sustainability, it encourages its customers to recycle all their plastic containers and aluminum cans for charity at Lotus’s Bandar Puteri Jaya, Lotus’s Kepong, Lotus’s Bahau, Lotus’s Penang E-Gate, Lotus’s Indera Mahkota and Lotus’s Desa Tebrau. The proceeds raised are being channeled to rehabilitation and physiotherapy programmes by Tender Touch Pediatric Rehab, who assist children, from low-income families to reach their full potential. For more information on the Lotus’s SSHLL campaign, please visit Lotus’s Malaysia’s official website, Facebook and Instagram: Website: https://corp.lotuss.com.my/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lotuss Malaysia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lotuss malaysia/ Soar into the Prosperous Year of the Dragon at Lotus’s Yap (second from left), and May Li (middle), showcasing the XL tiger prawns, one of the key CNY SKUs that are being offered in Lotus’s Malaysia this CNY. KUALA LUMPUR: Lotus’s Malaysia kicks off its Lunar New Year celebration with (da jia, Everyone) Sama-Sama Huat Looong Long (SSHLL) Campaign to usher in the Year of the Wood Dragon. The campaign which runs until Feb 14, offers customers special Chinese New Year (CNY) promotions, great rewards and activities when they shop at Lotus’s stores and malls. In anticipation of the prosperity the Year of the Dragon promises to bring, the theme reflects the potential for long-term growth, progress and abundance together with its customers, partners and communities. Commercial Director for Lotus’s Malaysia, Lee May Li said: “While ushering in the year of the Dragon, we remember what it symbolizes, a promising year filled with opportunities and good fortune. “We hope more shoppers will recognise Lotus’s as a retailer that caters to their individual needs, and their families through great offers and a bountiful selection of over 1,000 CNY key line products as well as family fun engagements and activities. Throughout the campaign period, customers will get to sample, win prizes and purchase at promotional prices for the many well-known brands being exhibited at Lotus’s CNY Pavillion located at 23 of our stores. Some of the most sought out items made available in-store and online are XL – XXL tiger prawns, frozen cooked Canadian lobsters, and Australian banana prawns, as well as
LYFE LYFE THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 26 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Moutai mastery AS we step into the auspicious Year of the Dragon, there is no better libation to elevate the celebratory spirit than Moutai. This distinguished baijiu, rooted in the town of Maotai, Guizhou Province, China, stands as a shining gem in the world of spirits. Celebrated not only for its exceptional taste but also for its unique brand characteristics, Moutai has become a symbol of Chinese tradition, culture and craftsmanship. At its core, Moutai is a baijiu, a potent distilled spirit ingrained in Chinese heritage. Crafted by the esteemed Kweichow Moutai Company, Moutai traces its origins back to 135 BC, boasting a rich legacy and a complex flavour profile that includes sweet, sour and savoury notes. This spirit has gained international acclaim, symbolising luxury and prestige. Moutai’s brand advantage begins with its unique origin in the town of Maotai. The region’s geographical and climatic conditions contribute to the cultivation of raw materials, resulting in unique flavours that define Moutai. This special terroir Flying Fairy Kweichow Moutai. – KWEICHOW MOUTAI oDefinitive spirit for the Year of the Dragon █ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN sets Moutai apart, contributing to its exceptional quality. Central to Moutai’s brewing process is its non-replicable microbial ecology. The fermentation process relies on naturally occurring microbes in the Maotai environment, creating a distinct aroma and taste that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Moutai’s consistency and exceptional quality stem from its age-honoured brewing process. Meticulous craftsmanship and adherence to traditional methods, passed down through generations, fuse time-honoured techniques with modern technology, preserving the authenticity of Moutai’s taste. Moutai’s access to abundant, high-quality sorghum, the primary ingredient, reinforces its brand strength. The region surrounding Maotai provides a consistent supply of premium raw materials, ensuring Moutai maintains its exceptional standards. Moutai’s journey includes both traditional varieties and innovative expressions. From classic expressions embodying the essence of its brewing process to limited editions exploring diverse flavours, Moutai’s diverse portfolio showcases a commitment to tradition and innovation. Its influence extends beyond traditional spirits, with adaptations like Moutai ice cream and lattes gaining popularity. These innovative offerings highlight Moutai’s versatility, captivating consumers with new ways to savour its unique flavours and preserving its legacy in contemporary culinary experiences. It stands as a cultural icon, a testament to centuries of Chinese craftsmanship. Its brand advantage lies not only in its exceptional taste but also in the unique combination of factors. Moutai symbolises tradition, exclusivity and unwavering quality, making it the definitive drink for the Year of the Dragon and it continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Spirited wellness CHINESE liquor, often associated with cultural celebrations and traditional toasts, has a long history deeply rooted in traditional medicine. Apart from its cultural and social significance, a growing understanding highlights the potential health benefits associated with the moderate consumption of Chinese liquor. While it is crucial to emphasise responsible drinking, exploring the positive aspects of consuming this traditional beverage can provide a fresh perspective on its role in promoting well-being. Digestive aid Chinese liquor is traditionally consumed after meals as a digestive aid. The aromatic compounds in the liquor, combined with its warming properties, are believed to stimulate digestion and alleviate post-meal discomfort. While excessive alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on the digestive system, moderate intake may contribute to a more comfortable digestion process. Traditional medicinal components Certain Chinese liquors are crafted with herbs and botanicals known for their traditional medicinal properties. These ingredients may include ginseng, goji berries and various aromatic herbs, contributing to the potential health benefits of the beverage. Ginseng, for example, is recognised in traditional Chinese medicine for its adaptogenic properties, which may help the body Imbibing liqour and alcoholic benerages in moderation has long been said to have many health benefits. – PICS BY FREEPIK █ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Chinese liquor are enriched with traditional herbs and offers a unique blend of flavours. cope with stress and promote overall well-being. Antioxidant properties Chinese liquor, such as baijiu, contains certain compounds that exhibit antioxidant properties. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralising free radicals in the body, which helps reduce oxidative stress. By countering the damaging effects of free radicals, Chinese liquor may contribute to overall cellular health and potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases. Cardiovascular health The moderate intake of Chinese liquor has been associated with enhanced cardiovascular health. This is evident in findings suggesting that a moderate consumption of alcohol may contribute to an increase in highdensity lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as “good” cholesterol. Elevated HDL levels are correlated with a reduced risk of heart disease, positioning Chinese liquor as a potential supporter of heart health when consumed in a responsible manner. Social and mental well-being In Chinese culture, liquor is often shared during social gatherings, celebrations and business events. The communal nature of toasting and sharing a drink fosters social connections and promotes a sense of belonging. Positive social interactions have been linked to improved mental wellbeing, reducing feelings of loneliness and stress. While the health benefits of Chinese liquor are intriguing, it is crucial to approach alcohol consumption with moderation and responsibility. Excessive drinking can lead to a myriad of health issues, including liver damage, addiction and an increased risk of accidents. However, when enjoyed in moderation and as part of a healthy lifestyle, Chinese liquor may offer a unique blend of cultural richness and potential health benefits. As always, individuals should consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating any alcoholic beverages into their routine, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions.
SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 27 MCLAREN see Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as their long-term driver pairing in Formula One and believe they can convince the Briton to stay beyond next year, according to the team’s chief executive Zak Brown. Norris, 24, is set to start his sixth season with McLaren while Australian Piastri, 22, had a strong debut last year after a legal tussle for his services with Renault-owned Alpine in 2022. Champions Red Bull have made no secret of their interest in Norris, whose contract at McLaren expires at the end of 2025 with the sport entering a new engine era and general reset in 2026. “We have Lando under contract for another couple of years, of course we are in dialogue with him on a continuous basis,” Brown told reporters at a livery launch at the team’s Woking headquarters. “We’re very focused now here obviously on the short term, but 2026 is not far away and we recognise that being able to retain Lando and Oscar for the foreseeable future is definitely a key element and something that is a high priority for us.” Piastri has a contract to the end of 2026. Brown said his approach was to take care of all his employees, sponsors and drivers so that they wanted to be part of McLaren. “I tend to focus on making sure McLaren’s the best environment and people want to be with us because you ultimately cannot control external approaches to those various people,” he explained. “I’m very confident in the relationship that we have with Lando, I know he’s very excited for this year and was very impressed with w h a t he saw in the second half of last year. “He loves working with (team principal) Andrea (Stella) and everyone on the team, so all we need to keep doing is keep giving him the environment that he wants to be in and then I’m confident he’ll stick around.” Stella said Norris, who had six second places and a third last year and now jointly holds the record for most podiums without a win (13), brought a lot to the team. “The relationship between Lando and Oscar I think is a point of strength for our team,” he said. “The two have almost complimentary driver characteristics from a driving and technical point of view. “For Lando it’s almost unexplored as to how good he is, sometimes he surprises us with some of the performances he can put together.” – Reuters SCAN ME THURSDAY JAN 18, 2024 McLaren’s long-term plan Formula One team wants to keep Norris, Piastri beyond 2025 Allen’s record gives NZ series win NEW ZEALAND sealed their T20 series against Pakistan with two games to spare yesterday on the back of a record 137 off 62 balls by opener Finn Allen at University Oval in Dunedin. The Black Caps, sent in to bat in game three of the five-match series, won by 45 runs after posting a colossal 224 for seven and restricting Pakistan to 179 for seven. It followed their victories by 46 and 21 runs respectively in the first two matches. The swashbuckling Allen, following on from his 74 off 21 balls in game two, frequently belted the ball out of the ground as he smashed 16 sixes and five fours in his whirlwind innings. The opener’s 137 is the highest score by a New Zealander in a T20 international, surpassing the previous best of 123 set by Brendon McCullum, and it equalled the world record of 16 sixes in an innings held by Afghanistan’s Hazratullah Zazai. Zimbabwe record first T20 win over Sri Lanka ZIMBABWE celebrated yesterday after winning their first T20 international against Sri Lanka in dramatic fashion to square the three-match series in Colombo. Chasing a target of 174, Zimbabwe required 20 runs off the last over bowled by Angelo Mathews, triumphing by four wickets. Mathews, Sri Lanka’s hero with the bat with an unbeaten 66, was hit for three sixes in the final over as Zimbabwe knocked off the target with a ball to spare. Zimbabwe’s Luke Jongwe, who smashed 25 not out off 12 balls with two fours and two sixes, was named man of the match. “I am just lost for words… very pleased with what we did today,” said Jongwe. England hoping to get Archer fit ENGLAND are hopeful pace bowler Jofra Archer will be fit to play in this summer’s T20 World Cup. The 28-year-old has not played professional cricket since a recurrence of an elbow injury at the Indian Premier League in May. Archer did train with England during their white-ball tour of the Caribbean in December and Rob Key, managing director of England men’s cricket, is optimistic he can play a part in their T20 World Cup title defence. “Our plan is the T20 World Cup, building him up slowly,” Key told the BBC’s Tailenders podcast. “I saw him bowl in the Caribbean and it was like he’d never been away. I don’t want to get back to this thing where he plays and then goes down again. He wanted to play in the IPL, but we said not this time. Hopefully the years he has missed he can add to the end of his career. He is such a talent.” LIV chairman could face lawsuit YASIR AL-RUMAYYAN, the governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and the chairman of LIV Golf, is facing a US$74m (RM348m) lawsuit in Canada claiming he “carried out the instructions” of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to harm a former intelligence chief. The Athletic reported that legal papers were shipped to PIF addresses in Saudi Arabia, New York and London. They ask a Canadian court for permission to add Yasir to an existing court case as well as levy a new claim against him and others. Yasir is accused of being “directly involved” in a lengthy campaign against the family of Saad Aljabri, whose children are jailed in Saudi Arabia. Saad was a top aide to Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who was deposed by Mohammed as an heir to the throne back in 2017. This led Saad to flee Saudi Arabia and settle in Canada. The lawsuit claims Yasir aided Mohammed’s “malicious intent” of “harming, silencing and ultimately destroying” Saad’s family. BRIEFS New Zealand’s Finn Allen plays a shot during the third match against Pakistan. – AFPPIX Norris. – REUTERSPIX DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM NEGERI WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT NO: WA-28NCC-1222-12/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Dran Property Management Sdn. Bhd. [No. Syarikat: 201401023300 (1099387-U)] Dan Dalam perkara mengenai seksyen 465(1) (e) di baca Bersama seksyen 466(1)(a) Akta Syarikat 2016 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Kaedah-Kaedah Syarikat (Penggulungan) 1972 ANTARA PERBADANAN PENGURUSAN BAYU TASIK 1 KONDOMINIUM (No. Buku Pendaftaran Strata: 1690) [ditadbir oleh LDS INTERNATIONAL ASSET MANAGEMENT SDN BHD] ….PEMPETISYEN DAN DRAN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SDN. BHD. [No. Syarikat: 201401023300 (1099387-U)] …RESPONDEN IKLAN PETISYEN NOTIS adalah dengan ini diberikan bahawa suatu Petisyen untuk menggulungan Syarikat yang dinamakan di atas, Dran Property Management Sdn Bhd [No. Syarikat: 201401023300 (1099387-U)] oleh Mahkamah Tinggi pada 04 haribulan Disember 2023 dikemukakan oleh Perbadanan Pengurusan Bayu Tasik 1 Kondominium (No. Buku Pendaftaran Strata: 1690) [ditadbir oleh LDS International Asset Management Sdn Bhd] yang beralamat di No. 1, Jalan Sri Permaisuri, Bandar Sri Permaisuri, 56000 Kuala Lumpur dan Petisyen tersebut adalah diarahkan supaya didengar di hadapan Mahkamah yang bersidang secara video di Kuala Lumpur pada 07 haribulan Mac, 2024, pada pukul 9.30 pagi dan mana-mana pihak pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang ingin menyokong atau membantah perintah atas Petisyen itu bolehlah hadir pada waktu perbicaraan dengan sendirinya atau melalui peguamnya. Salinan Petisyen tersebut akan dibekalkan oleh pihak yang bertandatangan di bawah ini kepada mana-mana pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang memintanya dengan membuat bayaran yang ditetapkan. Alamat Pempetisyen adalah di No. 1, Jalan Sri Permaisuri, Bandar Sri Permaisuri, 56000 Kuala Lumpur. Peguamcara Pempetisyen ialah Tetuan Eunice Tan & Partners (Cawangan Setapak) yang beralamat di 2-1-11, Tingkat 1, Wisma Rampai, Jalan 34/26, Taman Sri Rampai, Setapak, 53300 Kuala Lumpur. ............... (tandatangan)............... Peguamcara Pempetisyen Nota:- Sesiapa yang ingin hadir pada perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut hendaklah menyampaikan, atau menghantar dengan pos, kepada Tetuan Eunice Tan & Partners (Cawangan Setapak) secara bertulis tentang niatnya sebegitu. Notis tersebut mestilah menyatakan nama dan alamat pihak berkenaan, atau jika ia sebuah firma, dan mestilah ditandatangani oleh pihak atau firma berkenaan atau peguamcaranya, jika ada. Notis hendaklah disampaikan, atau jika dihantar dengan pos, hendaklah dihantar dalam jangkamasa mencukupi, supaya sampai kepada pihak yang dinamakan di atas sebelum pukul 12.00 tengahari pada 06 haribulan Mac, 2024 (sehari sebelum tarikh yang ditetapkan untuk perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut). E-mel: [email protected] Ruj: ETP.STP.2920.L.23.BAYU 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI SHAH ALAM DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA PETISYEN PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT NO : BA-28NCC- 747-12/2023 Dalam perkara Seksyen 465 (1) (e) dan Seksyen 466 (1) (a) Akta Syarikat 2016 Dan Dalam perkara AXG INDUSTRIES SDN BHD [No. Syarikat: 201001043886 (927814-W)] BRILLIANT GLOBAL NETWORK (M) SDN BHD [No. Syarikat: 201001035229 (919152-V)] ...PEMPETISYEN DAN AXG INDUSTRIES SDN BHD [No. Syarikat: 201001043886 (927814-W)] ...RESPONDEN NOTIS IKLAN PETISYEN NOTIS ADALAH DENGAN INI DIBERI bahawa satu Petisyen untuk Penggulungan Syarikat yang dinamakan di atas oleh Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam telah pada 26 haribulan Disember, 2023, dikemukakan oleh BRILLIANT GLOBAL NETWORK (M) SDN BHD [NO. SYARIKAT: 201001035229(919152-V)] yang beralamat di 51-1, Jalan Putra Sulaiman 3, Taman Putra Sulaiman, 68000 Ampang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. DAN bahawa Petisyen tersebut diarahkan supaya dibicarakan di hadapan Mahkamah yang bersidang di Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam pada pukul 9.00 pagi, pada 08 haribulan Mei, 2024. DAN mana-mana pihak pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang ingin menyokong atau menentang sesuatu perintah mengikut Petisyen tersebut boleh hadir dengan tujuan itu secara peribadi atau melalui peguambelanya pada masa perbicaraan. Salinan Petisyen tersebut akan dibekalkan oleh pihak yang bertandatangan di bawah ini kepada mana-mana pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang meminta dengan bayaran yang ditetapkan. Alamat Pempetisyen adalah di 51-1, Jalan Putra Sulaiman 3, Taman Putra Sulaiman, 68000 Ampang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Peguamcara Pempetisyen ialah Tetuan Puspalingam, Kasmani & Partners yang beralamat di No. 2-2-1 (2nd Floor), Lorong Tingkat KS/01, Off Jalan Istana, 41000 Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. ................t.t................ Tetuan Puspalingam, Kasmani & Partners (Peguamcara bagi pihak Pempetisyen) NOTA:- Sesiapa yang ingin hadir pada hari perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut hendaklah menyampaikan atau menghantar dengan pos kepada Pempetisyen atau peguamcaranya yang dinamakan di atas suatu notis bertulis tentang niatnya sebegitu. Notis tersebut mestilah menyatakan nama dan alamat pihak berkenaan, atau jika ia sebuah firma, nama dan alamat firma, dan mestilah ditandatangani oleh pihak atau firma berkenaan atau peguamcaranya, jika ada. Notis hendaklah disampaikan, atau jika dihantar dengan pos, hendaklah dihantar dalam jangkamasa yang mencukupi, supaya sampai kepada pihak yang dinamakan di atas sebelum pukul 12 tengahari pada 07 haribulan Mei, 2024 (sehari sebelum tarikh yang ditetapkan untuk perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut) [Ruj. Kami: PKP/KP/7702/23/ CVL(Winding Up)/Tel: 03-3371 4150/ 03-3372 1155/Faks: 03-3373 0746] If you feel you have what it takes, to join us in the interesting media industry, send your resume (together with a photo of you) via email to [email protected] You can call us at +603 7784 6688 theSun is published by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd Lot 6, Level 4, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. MARKETING EXECUTIVE Responsibilities 1. Handle both local & outstation Agents and Vendors. 2. Handle sales of newspaper-corporate sales e.g.: Hospital, Hotels, etc. 3. Actively engage in outbound sales activities to acquire new newspaper subscribers. Requirements 1. Minimum Diploma in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field with at least 2 years of experience. 2. Proven experience in sales, preferably in the media or publishing industry would be an advantage 3. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 4. Excellent selling, communication and negotiation skills. Malaysian Paper MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE / AGENT (FREELANCE) Requirements 1. Minimum 1 year sales experience in newspaper bulk sales and digital advertising 2. Attractice commision package and incentive 3. Able to start immediately 4. Central, Nothern, Southern, East Coast and Sabah/Sarawak 302 Jobs IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 and IN THE MATTER OF SEREMBAN TWO PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SDN. BHD. Registration No. 199601018737 (391088-W) (In Member’s Voluntary Winding-Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Final Meeting of the contributory of the abovenamed Company will be held at the Liquidators’ office at Wisma Goshen, 2nd Floor, 60, 62 & 64 Jalan SS 22/21, Damansara Jaya, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan on Monday, 19 February 2024 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes:- 1. To lay before the meeting the Liquidators’ statement of account and to give explanations thereof. 2. To decide under Section 518(3) (b) of the Companies Act, 2016, the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company may be destroyed. Dated this 18th day of January, 2024. Lam Lee San Lee Yee Ching Liquidators NOTE: A contributory entitled to attend and vote at the abovementioned meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy who need not be a member of the Company to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing a proxy must be duly deposited at the Liquidators’ office, not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. 322 Notices CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA / MS. BALQISH T 03 7784 8888 F 03 7784 4424
SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 28 TRAMLINES IT had been a year to the day since Emma Raducanu last experienced the elation of a grand slam win: 12 months exactly since a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Tamara Korpatsch at the 2023 Australian Open. A year on, Raducanu stepped onto the same court, the 1573 Arena in Melbourne Park, and in 86 minutes she had secured the same result: a 6-3, 6-2 win over Shelby Rogers. But that is where the similarities end. After missing the final eight months of last season following a triple surgery procedure on both wrists and her left ankle, Raducanu returned to the grand slam stage refreshed and played with renewed purpose. Before the Australian Open, Raducanu had spoken about how she felt dragged down by the weight of expectation in the months after her US Open win in 2021, explaining the pressure was “like playing with a backpack of rocks”, and she reasoned that the time spent away from the game had allowed her to take a new perspective ahead of the season. Last year, she arrived at the Australian Open in a wheelchair. “The Emma who walked on court 12 months ago had a huge cyst removed about 10 days before,” Raducanu said. “I only started hitting three days before the match. That whole process was a lot of stress. “We weren’t sure if I was going to be able to play here. I think this year and now there’s just a lot more calm. I think I’m more level-headed. “I think things around me have settled. I do feel better, and there’s just less, I’d say… highs and lows around. It’s just more of an equilibrium.” Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of Raducanu’s display was not the result at all, but how she was prepared to win or lose on her own terms. “I think what I realised is the difference between me potentially losing in the first round or doing really well at a tournament is honestly really, really slim,” she said. “It’s just in the way that I move, in the way that I do things physically. I think just not being so drastic, I would say, because I know it’s not far away at all, and I know the more I practice consistently, it will come up.” – The Independent Djokovic digs deep Down Under World No. 1 survives major Popyrin scare to reach Australian Open third round DEFENDING champion Novak Djokovic survived a huge scare before beating home hope Alexei Popyrin 6- 3 4-6, 7-6(4), 6-3 to reach the third round of the Australian Open yesterday. The 36-year-old Serb, bidding for a recordextending 11th crown in Melbourne, was in deep trouble in the third set when errors began to flow and he had to save four set points. With the packed night-time crowd on the edge of their seats, top seed Djokovic used his vast experience to win the pivotal tiebreak and then broke a dispirited Popyrin midway through the fourth set to finally seize control. Djokovic duly racked up his 30th successive victory at the Australian Open – his last defeat coming in 2018 – but for the second successive round he was pushed hard. Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner has been catching the eye with his tennis over the last few months but accepts that his rangy physique is probably never going to attract that much attention. The 22-year-old Italian fourth seed raced into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday with a 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 demolition of Dutch qualifier Jesper de Jong. Sinner skipped the warm-up tournaments for Melbourne Park this year and said that meant it was all the more important to make the most of the days when he is not playing. “Tomorrow I have a day off, I’m trying to practice myself into match rhythm. I’ll also go to the gym… I’m skinny but it’s okay,” he told fans on Margaret Court Arena after his victory. “Of course it’s all muscle,” he added with a laugh. “Unfortunately not but it’s okay. I’m happy with my physicality at the moment. Of course, it’s a dream to have like the Baywatch physicality but it’s okay.” Despite his slender build, there was no lack of power in his shots yesterday as Sinner continued a strong run of form going back to the end of last season that has some tipping him to win first Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park this year. He completely dominated world No. 161 De Jong under the closed roof on Margaret Court Arena, banging down 26 winners and facing not a single break point over the entire contest. There were sympathetic cheers from the crowd when De Jong finally got on the scoreboard in the final set but Sinner was soon serving out to love to ease into the third round for the third successive year. Next up for Sinner is a clash with Argentine world No. 29 Sebastian Baez and, for all his fine form, the Italian knows it is far too early to get carried away with his start to the tournament. “We have to see how I go when the match is closer, when the sets are closer, trying to see how I react,” he said. “It doesn’t matter who you play against, you fear nobody but have a lot of respect for everyone.” In an earlerr match, Stefanos Tsitsipas said the adrenaline rush he got in a titanic struggle to battle past home hope Jordan Thompson at the Australian Open yesterday was “insane”. Last year’s beaten finalist struggled to get going in front of a rowdy crowd on Margaret Court Arena before finally getting over the line 4-6, 7-6 (8-6), 6- 2, 7-6 (7-4) after a gruelling 3 hours and 36 minutes. It set him up with a clash for a place in the fourth round with France’s Luca Van Assche. “The adrenaline and the rush I got out of this match tonight was insane,” said the seventh seed, who lost to Novak Djokovic in last year’s final. “You live for these kinds of matches, the intensity was there today. We were both able to peak in terms of our tennis at some point during the match. “The fact that I can go to sleep tonight and know I gave it all makes me extremely happy right now.” – AFP/Reuters Jabeur, Wozniacki derailed by Russian NextGen █ BY JAMIE BRAIDWOOD Sabalenka blasts past teenager DEFENDING champion Aryna Sabalenka pummelled her second straight teenage qualifier into submission yesterday to ease into the Australian Open third round. The powerful Belarusian second seed was not at her vintage best on Rod Laver Arena, but still did enough against 16-year-old Brenda Fruhvirtova, romping home 6-3, 6-2. Sabalenka has yet to be seriously tested as she bids to become the first woman to successfully defend her Melbourne title since Victoria Azarenka in 2013. “For someone 16 years old she is doing an incredible job. I mean, I wish I was on her level when I was 16,” said Sabalenka. “She is an unbelievable player. She’ll be at the top very soon. I’m super-happy with the win,” she added. “I just tried to focus on myself and not anything else, and just tried to fight for every point.” She will next face Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko or Spain's Rebeka Masarova. Osaka vows not to mope NAOMI OSAKA said yesterday that crashing out of the Australian Open was “bittersweet” but vowed not to mope as she headed home in time to see new baby Shai crawl for the first time. The Japanese star stepped away from tennis in September 2022, citing mental health concerns. After giving birth to a girl in July, she returned for the 2024 season only to hit a roadblock at the first hurdle in the opening Grand Slam of the year on Monday. “I remember last year I wished I had an opportunity to play again on Rod Laver Arena and this year that happened, so one of my dreams already came true,” she said on social media. “Currently, however, my entire being is so disappointed with my result, the standards I set myself are so incredibly high. I try to remind myself that I was pregnant six months ago and I can’t expect amazing results from the jump – that doesn’t really do much to quell my thoughts though.” The rusty 26- year-old former world No. 1 was knocked out by French 16th seed Caroline Gracia. Despite her disappointment, Osaka said she was better able to deal with defeat now than earlier in her career.. SIXTH SEED Ons Jabeur and former champion Caroline Wozniacki fell victim to exciting young Russians in the Australian Open second round yesterday. The veteran pair were no match for Mirra Andreeva and Maria Timofeeva, who emphatically stamped their mark on the opening Grand Slam of the year, which was marred by rain on day four. Andreeva, just 16, was in scintillating form to take down 29-year-old three-time major runner-up Jabeur 6- 0, 6-2 under the closed roof on Rod Laver Arena in just 54 minutes. “Probably it was the best match (ever),” said Andreeva, a schoolgirl who burst onto the scene when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year as a qualifier. “The first set, I didn’t expect that I would play this good. Second set was also not bad. So, yes, for me it was an amazing match.” Her reward is a third-round clash with France’s Diane Parry. Timofeeva, a 20-year-old qualifier, was equally impressive against 2018 champion Wozniacki, who flew through the first set and was a break up in the second. Undeterred, Timofeeva, showing impressive power, hauled herself back into the contest and ultimately prevailed against a player 13 years her senior, winning 1- 6, 6-4, 6-1. “It was an honour to play here against Caroline today. I’m just beyond happy and couldn’t ask for more,” she said after setting up a testing third-round meeting with 10th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia. With play on outside courts starting more than three hours late due to rain, Sinner was one of the fortunate few to be scheduled in one of the three main arenas, which all have roofs. The Italian wasted no time in dispatching Dutch qualifier Jesper de Jong 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 on Margaret Court Arena. His next assignment in his bid for a maiden Grand Slam title will be against Argentine 26th seed Sebastian Baez or Colombia’s unseeded Daniel Elahi Galan. US Open champion Gauff was equally untroubled in sweeping past fellow American Caroline Dolehide 7-6 (7- 2), 6-2 while De Minaur and Krejcikova had easy straightsets wins. – AFP Mirra Andreeva celebrates winning her second round match against Ons Jabeur (not pictured). –REUTERSPIX Raducanu finds balance on grand slam return
SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 29 VICTOR OSIMHEN won the Serie A title with Napoli last season and ended 2023 by being named African footballer of the year, but the striker reckons lifting the Cup of Nations with Nigeria might just top the lot. “It would be one of the best moments of my life,” the 25-year-old told AFP in Abidjan, where the Super Eagles are preparing to face hosts Ivory Coast in their second group game at this edition of the Afcon on Friday (1am Malaysian time). “I have done that with Napoli, I have made history, but no matter what I do, no matter how many goals I have scored, to be able to win the Afcon, I would go a long way in my life but probably when I do that I am done,” he admitted. “I am really looking forward to winning something with the Super Eagles.” The eyes of Africa’s most populous country, home to over 220 million people, are on him, but he insists he can handle the pressure. “I have aimed high all my life, while growing up, and this pressure comes naturally. I am the kind of person who doesn’t fold under pressure,” he said while speaking at the Nigerian team hotel overlooking Abidjan’s Cocody Bay. “As the pressure comes I take it into my head to try to give my best and do well for myself. “So far so good, I have been doing well for my club and country, which I feel like is the most important thing,” said Osimhen, who pipped Achraf Hakimi and Mohamed Salah to the African player prize. “To win the African player of the year is just the dream of every young African player. For me to have won it shows the kind of things I have put in, the hard work, the sweat, the tears. “For me it is really a dream come true,” he added, appearing relaxed having just finished another interview with Togo’s 2008 African footballer of the year, Emmanuel Adebayor. The lithe forward spearheads a Super Eagles side packed full of attacking talent and the aim for Osimhen is to lead them to a first Afcon crown since 2013. Doing that would allow him to take his place alongside Nigerian greats such as Nwankwo Kanu and Jay-Jay Okocha, the latter part of the team that won the 1994 Cup of Nations. “I used to speak with Nwankwo Kanu and Jay-Jay Okocha. I think I owe a lot of my success to them, because they have been sort of an inspiration to me while growing up,” said Osimhen is fresh from signing a new contract at Napoli, where he insists he is happy and has “a good relationship” with president Aurelio De Laurentiis. His previous Afcon experiences have been frustrating, as he hardly featured when Nigeria – with Odion Ighalo leading the attack – finished third in 2019 and then missed the 2022 edition altogether. “Now I am here. It is a dream come true for me. I don’t want to put myself in the centre but of course a lot of people say this. I think I am more of like a team player.” Osimhen scored as Nigeria were held by Equatorial Guinea in their opening Group A game, a result that increases the pressure before facing the hosts. – AFP ‘Win AFCON and I’m done!’ Osimhen dreams of triumph with Super Eagles SAUDI ARABIA came from behind to beat Oman 2-1 in their Asian Cup Group F opener yesterday at a packed Khalifa International Stadium with Ali Al-Bulayhi’s winner arriving in the sixth minute of stoppage time after a VAR intervention. With the score tied at 1-1, Al-Bulayhi scored with a close-range header from a set piece and although the linesman’s flag immediately went up for offside, VAR awarded Roberto Mancini’s side the goal. “The goal is a gift to the Saudi people. This is what great players do,” said Al-Bulayhi, who celebrated the dramatic winner in trademark fashion by inflating a green balloon near the corner flag. The victory takes Saudi Arabia level on three points with Thailand, who beat Kyrgyzstan 2-0 in the other Group F encounter earlier in the day when Supachai Chaided scored either side of halftime. Oman’s opener in the 14th minute came against the run of play when the Saudis took a poor corner and as their opponents countered at speed, defender Hassan Al-Tambakti clipped Muhsen Al-Ghassani just as he entered the box. The penalty was awarded after a VAR review and Salaah Al-Yahyaei stepped up to score. Oman were disciplined in defence and Saudi Arabia found it difficult to break through the wall of red shirts. Mancini cut a frustrated figure near his dugout but his halftime team talk must have struck a chord as his players came out with renewed vigour in search of an equaliser. “The second half was better than the first half, we created a lot of chances, we had more possession. If you have more possession, you have chances to score,” Mancini told reporters. “Oman defended very well. We didn’t find good solutions at first but we had chances and we scored the second goal in the end, but we should have scored before.” – Reuters Saudi Arabia leave it late to beat Oman NAMIBIA winger Deon Hotto scored in the 88th minute to hand them a shock 1-0 victory over Tunisia at the Africa Cup of Nations yesterday and keep up the sequence of surprise results that have dominated the opening days of the tournament. Hotto sneaked in at the back post to hand the southern African country, 87 places below Tunisia in the world rankings, a deserved win as they were markedly more enterprising and created the better chances in the opening Group E encounter at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium. Tunisia are the top seeds in the group but laboured through the game and their goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said make several key stops to deny Namibia captain Peter Shalulile. Hotto also wasted a clear first half opportunity and had a curling free kick saved minutes before he ghosted in at the back post to secure the victory. “This is a massive achievement for us, nobody gave us a chance. This is for a country that really needs a lift,” said Namibia coach Collin Benjamin. “We are not in a position to talk big before the match, when everybody calls us ‘underdogs’. We can only do our talking on the pitch,” he added. The north Africans, who are the third highest African side in the FIFA rankings at 28, looked nervy and out of sorts. They join Ghana as former winners who have lost their opening match at the tournament while Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt and Nigeria were all held in games they were expected to win. “We lost control of the midfield and they caught us with their pace and aggression,” said Tunisia coach Jalel Kadri. Meanwhile, Hamari Traore and Lassine Sinayoko scored within six second half minutes to give Mali a 2-0 Africa Cup of Nations Group E victory yesterday over South Africa, who missed a penalty. Mali are a bogey team for South Africa, having twice eliminated them in the quarterfinals in previous Cup of Nations meetings. The Malians came closest to winning the African showpiece in their 1972 debut as they reached the final before losing 3-2 to Congo Brazzaville in Yaounde. Bertrand Traore scored a stoppage time penalty as Burkina Faso claimed a 1-0 victory over Mauritania in their Africa Cup of Nations Group D clash at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake on Tuesday, writing a piece of history in the process. – AFP/Reuters Namibia upset Tunisia at Cup of Nations Tunisia’s Elyes Achouri (right) fights for the ball with Namibia’s Riaan Hanamub during their Africa Cup of Nations match. – AFPPIX West Ham dumped out of FA Cup TOMMY CONWAY’S early goal secured secondtier Bristol City a place in the FA Cup fourth round as they beat Premier League West Ham United in a tempestuous replay at a rocking Ashton Gate yesterday. Youngster Conway pounced on a poor back pass in the third minute to give the hosts the lead and City were well worth their victory as West Ham ended with 10 men after Said Benrahma was red-carded early in the second half. Conway, a product of Bristol City’s youth team, had also scored in the initial tie that ended 1-1. Bristol City’s reward is a home tie against either Premier League Nottingham Forest or third-tier Blackpool. Despite injuries to some key players, West Ham manager David Moyes still fielded a strong side, but he could have few complaints at their first third-round exit since 2017. “Disappointed. Lots of things didn’t go for us tonight but overall disappointed,” Moyes said. Fourth-tier Newport County set up a dream home tie against 12-time winners Manchester United as they beat non-league Eastleigh 3-1. Goals by Aaron Wildig, James Clarke and Will Evans secured the victory and a windfall of aroun £400,000 (RM2.4 million) for the Welsh club who reached the fifth round in 2019. Wolverhampton Wanderers beat Brentford 3- 2 after extra time in an all Premier League clash with Matheus Cunha setting up a West Midlands derby at second-tier West Bromwich Albion. In an all-Championship clash, Birmingham City’s Koji Miyoshi scored in stoppage time to secure a 2-1 victory over Hull City and a fourth round tie at Leicester City. Luton edged out League One Bolton to progress 2-1 despite falling behind to Dion Charles’ early strike. – Reuters Vlahovic brace pushes Juve two points behind Inter DUSAN VLAHOVIC shot Juventus to within two points of Serie A leaders Inter Milan with a stunning double in yesterday’s 3-0 win over Sassuolo. Serbia striker Vlahovic struck twice from distance in the first half at the Allianz Stadium in Turin to help Juve to their sixth straight win in all competitions and keep the pressure on fierce rivals Inter. “We try to prepare every match as if it were our last… we’re happy with the win, let’s hope we can keep going,” said Vlahovic to DAZN. The 23-year-old put the hosts ahead in the 15th minute when left all alone near the edge of the penalty area, from where his dipping shot flew past Sassuolo goalkeeper Andrea Consigli. And he took his league tally to nine eight minutes before the break with a fabulous free-kick which again left Consigli grasping at thin air. Juve again didn’t put in a particularly impressive display but Sassuolo didn’t create enough and Federico Chiesa made absolutely sure of the points in the 89th minute when he bundled home his sixth goal of the season. “I’m pleased Federico scored, he deserved it. We’ve known each other a long time and we’re good friends, the goal will help him,” added Vlahovic. “But who scores is not important, it’s that we win matches.” Juve can now claim top spot at the weekend as they travel to Lecce on Sunday while Inter contest the four-team Italian Super Cup in Riyadh. Inter take on Lazio in the semifinals on Saturday and a trip to high-flying Fiorentina will follow the Super Cup for Inter at the end of this month before a showdown with Juve at the San Siro in early February. – AFP
SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 30 5747/2024 17/01/2024 (WED) 2314 5300 6382 4316 7618 8758 2982 1737 5123 7123 8121 1356 8648 8431 9901 1749 1548 7933 7399 4510 0052 1890 6923 9,219,357.33 2314 2314 2314 6382 6382 5300 6382 6382 5300 5300 2314 5300 181,945.72 2314 5300 6382 RAT 09760 31668 1668 668 76120 6 8 8 8 464188 64188 4188 188 46418 4641 464 4 6 5,411,153.82 2,966,508.35 17 38 42 48 53 54 359,916.12 5 17 22 29 39 52 7 13 20 31 33 44 2 22,134,617.06 RM666,439 RM9,647 won on 14/01/2024 ! Toto 4D Jackpot 2 (i-System) Toto 4D Jackpot 2 711 459 +ROOSTER 010 128 + SNAKE 337 297 + TIGER Draw Date: 17/01/24 (Wed) Draw No: 5694/24 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 1459 0128 7297 0635 + 3398 3749 + 7817 0645 + 9772 7928 + 5849 6468 + 6735 0527 + 5540 4905 + 8102 6867 + 0303 1084 + 4741 7271 + 4883 RM6,601,345.90 1459 + 0128 0128 + 1459 1459 + 7297 7297 + 1459 0128 + 7297 7297 + 0128 RM409,989.10 RM200,000.00 RM2,246,817.00 RM364,861.00 430 635 813 398 253 749 267 817 070 645 739 772 877 928 795 849 576 468 936 735 440 527 585 540 774 905 728 102 886 867 650 303 331 084 574 741 297 271 514 883 459 128 297 RM776,097.30 459 + 128 + 297 128 + 297 + 459 459 + 297 + 128 297 + 459 + 128 128 + 459 + 297 297 + 128 + 459 Fortune Ang Pow now available at all Da Ma Cai outlets! Six job options for Mourinho Premier League return, England role or money-chasing move? J OSE MOURINHO is a free agent again after being sacked by Roma. The former Chelsea and Manchester United boss, who led Roma to the Europa League final last season, has left the club with immediate effect. He was axed after winning just one game in five, with Roma down in ninth in the Serie A table. The Portuguese boss has also had plenty of run-ins with officials, being sent of twice in the last few weeks and six times overall during his two-and-ahalf years at the Stadio Olimpico. But it is unlikely fans have seen the last of Mourinho, 60, with a number of potential job options now facing him. Here’s where he could show up next: Premier League return After his spells at Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester United, could Mourinho have one final hurrah in the Premier League? He’s unlikely to get back in at one of the traditional “big six” clubs given he’s managed half of them already. But what about Newcastle, who have the ambition and cash to break into the elite and stay there? Despite the Magpies’ underwhelming season so far, Eddie Howe still has plenty of credit in the bank following a superb first full season in charge. Newcastle’s Saudi-led ownership haven’t thrown the kitchen sink at it yet, but there will come a time when they will expect to take the next step and actually win something. Howe is unproven on that front, but winning machine Mourinho isn’t. Some of the most passionate fans in the country mixed with the most combustible manager on the planet, it could be disastrous or delightful. Either way, it would be compelling viewing. Saudi cash-grab An obvious contender for Mourinho’s next move would be the money-laden Middle East. The Saudi Pro League has done a good job recruiting some of the bestknown players on the planet – and Jordan Henderson. But well-known managers are few and far between. Aside from the floundering Steven Gerrard, can you name a Saudi League boss? Exactly. In an attempt to add some credibility, the powers that be could throw sacks of money at Mourinho, who could probably pick his club. That downside? Would someone of Mourinho’s massive ego accept managing in front of miserly crowds that would make National League North clubs blush? This man wants – no, needs – an audience and Saudi may not cut the mustard on that front. Joining Messi and Becks in the MLS If Mourinho wants some glitz and glamour – and big pay day – he could turn to the MLS which is gaining traction thanks to the arrival of Lionel Messi and David Beckham at Inter Miami. However, it would still be seen as a step down for a boss who is used to managing the best in the world. Southgate’s replacement Mourinho has been linked to the England job before and that speculation will only ramp up ahead of what is likely to be Gareth Southgate’s final tournament in charge. There’s a feeling among some fans that Southgate, despite reaching a final and two semis, hasn’t made the most of outstanding crop of players. Could Mourinho help them make that final step? But it’s hard to see the FA suits going for a manager who isn’t afraid to take pot-shots at his bosses, officials, players, fans and, well, pretty much anything that moves. Emotional Porto return The club where Mourinho shot to prominence more than 20 years ago isn’t dominating Portuguese football like it used to. Benfica won the league last year while Sporting are top the tree at present, with Porto five points back in third. Sergio Conceicao has been at the helm since 2017 and was linked with the Inter Milan job last summer. A trophyless season could herald a change at Estadio do Dragao. Mourinho would have to put sentiment ahead of finance for it to happen, but stranger things have happened. Waiting for Portugal Another obvious international job would be Portugal, which would be a fitting way to round off his crazy career. However, he will have to wait for that role as incumbent Roberto Martinez has a contract until after the 2026 World Cup. That is unless Cristiano Ronaldo and Co have an absolute disaster at Euro 2024. Express Newspapers Mourinho. – AFPPIX
SPORTS SPORTS THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 31 NATURALISED striker Paulo Josue realised after a rocky start that Malaysia’s goal of making history by advancing to the 2023 Asian Cup round of 16 depends heavily on its performance against world No. 86, Bahrain. The Brazilian-born player said Harimau Malaya still have a chance to qualify for the knockout stage if they manage to steal three points against Dilmun’s Warriors when both teams lock horns in their second Group E match at the Jassim Bin Hammad Stadium, on Saturday (10.30pm Malaysian time). However, the 34-year-old Kuala Lumpur City FC player expects the clash will be a fierce match as Bahrain are also chasing three points after losing 3-1 to two-time champions South Korea in their opening match. “We are still in the tournament, we still have a chance so we need to prepare for the next match, and forget about our loss. “It will be a tough game, we watched Bahrain, they made a lot of trouble for South Korea. So we need to plan well to see what’s the best for the game and go there, go all out to try to collect points to qualify,” he said in Qatar yesterday. Meanwhile, winger Mohamad Faisal Abdul Halim, who is also optimistic that Malaysia still have a chance to reach the knockout round, urged his teammates to rise to victory and present a sterling performance against Bahrain The Selangor FC player said that defeat is normal in football, but as professional players they need to quickly forget bad results and focus on the next game. The hopes of Malaysia led by South Korean coach Kim Pan Gon to get a positive result in their first appearance after 17 years in the Asian Cup was not achieved after falling 4-0 to Jordan at the Al Janoub Stadium on Tuesday. After meeting Bahrain, Pan Gon’s men, who are ranked 130th in the world, will face South Korea in the final group action at the Al Janoub Stadium on Jan 25. Only the champions and runners-up of each group along with the four best thirdplaced teams will qualify for the round of 16. This is Malaysia’s fourth appearance in the Asian Cup after qualifying on merit in 1976 in Iran and 1980 in Kuwait and as co-hosts in 2007, but Malaysia exited at the group stage in the previous three editions. – Bernama All jackpot amounts stated above are for this Draw. Subject to T&Cs of the Scheme. Please visit to www.magnum4d.my for more info. THE BIGGER PLAY IS TO PLAY RESPONSIBLY 983/24 17/01/2024 0502 7663 4227 8943 4011 5280 9520 3423 2896 8461 8017 1030 7450 8870 1719 1691 9151 7478 0341 9780 2395 1906 9385 RM6,872,191.31 RM147,702.06 0502 + 7663 7663 + 0502 4227 + 0502 0502 + 4227 7663 + 4227 4227 + 7663 4 11 17 18 23 26 27 33 13 29 RM4,452,278.42 RM123,811.44 0 2 6 3 2 7 0 2 6 3 2 2 6 3 2 7 0 2 6 3 6 3 2 7 0 2 6 3 2 7 0 2 2 7 6 3 0 5 Paris hopes in limbo for Tigers Malaysia hockey team’s Olympic qualification uncertain after 4-1 defeat to Great Britain THE national men’s hockey squad’s opportunity to end a 24-year drought and qualify for the Olympics remains uncertain, after a 4-1 defeat to Great Britain in the qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in Muscat, Oman, yesterday. This is the second consecutive defeat for A. Arul Selvaraj’s team at the Oman Hockey Stadium, after losing 3-2 to China in their first Group A match on Monday (Jan 15). Facing the strong Great Britain, ranked fourth in the world, the 14th-ranked national squad, known as the Speedy Tigers, had to concede to the opponent’s attacking prowess, with Will Calnan scoring the opening goal in the 19th minute. The national hockey team refused to let Great Britain completely dominate, and equalised in the 26th minute through Muhammad Shahril Saabah. Great Britain secured their second goal, with Sam Ward converting a penalty corner in the 32nd minute, followed by Zachary Wallace exploding the third goal seven minutes later. However, Ward made sure that Great Britain was hard to challenge by scoring the fourth goal, his second, in the 58th minute. Following the result of this morning’s match, Great Britain tops the group standings with six points, while China is in second place, sharing three points with Pakistan in third. Malaysia remains at the bottom of the group with no points. However, China, Pakistan and the national team shared the same number of goals (three). The Speedy Tigers have no choice but to beat Pakistan by a big margin, and hope that Great Britain beats China in the last game of the group on Friday, thus finishing in the top two of the group to qualify for the semifinals. The 2024 Olympic Qualifying Championship in Muscat is the final stage for all teams competing for a place at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, with the top three teams earning a place at the world’s biggest sporting event. – Bernama N9 target top nine finish in Sarawak THE Negeri Sembilan Sukma contingent has set an initial target of finishing among the top nine teams in the Sukma hosted by Sarawak from Aug 17 to 24, said the head of the Negeri Sembilan contingent, Mustapha Nagoor. Mustapha who is also the State Youth and Sports Development Committee chairman said the state has yet to set the medal target but would instead focus on the preparation of athletes before the athletes are shortlisted. “The target set so far is to finish in the single digit of placings at the Sukma. The state sports council has set a number of competitions to evaluate the performance of athletes who will be selected to represent the state,” he told Bernama. “Maybe by June the name list can be completed,” he said after handing over financial allocation in conjunction with the Sukan Negeri Sembilan (Suknes) 2024. Mustapha said 450 athletes have been selected to participate in 35 sports events contested in the Sukma and a majority of the state athletes are not involved in any major international sports events this year. He added that with the consent of the Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, it was agreed that sports that did not contribute any medals in the previous Sukma held two years ago, would not be considered for this year’s games. In the 20th Sukma in Kuala Lumpur, the Negeri Sembilan contingent finished in 10th spot with 17 gold, six silver and 24 bronze medals. Earlier, 36 constituencies represented by their respective elected state representatives received RM10,000 each to participate in Suknes, which is held once in four years, featuring four sports, namely badminton, netball, futsal and sepak takraw. Aminuddin said the Suknes involves the participation of athletes aged 16 and above who will represent their respective constituencies in three stages of the competition held from Jan 27-28, Feb 3-4 and the grand final scheduled from Feb 16-18. RESULTS & STANDINGS SERIE A: Juventus 3 (Vlahovic 15, 37, Chiesa 89) Sassuolo 0. P W D L F A Pts Inter Milan 20 16 3 1 49 10 51 Juventus 20 15 4 1 32 12 49 AC Milan 20 13 3 4 38 21 42 Fiorentina 20 10 4 6 29 21 34 Atalanta 20 10 3 7 35 21 33 Lazio 20 10 3 7 24 20 33 Bologna 20 8 8 4 23 18 32 Napoli 20 9 4 7 30 25 31 Roma 20 8 5 7 32 24 29 Torino 20 7 7 6 18 18 28 Monza 20 6 7 7 20 25 25 Genoa 20 5 7 8 20 24 22 Lecce 20 4 9 7 20 26 21 Sassuolo 20 5 4 11 26 36 19 Frosinone 20 5 4 11 25 39 19 Udinese 20 2 12 6 21 32 18 Cagliari 20 4 6 10 19 33 18 Verona 20 4 5 11 18 27 17 Empoli 20 3 4 13 11 35 13 Salernitana 20 2 6 12 17 40 12 FA CUP (3rd round replays): Wolves 3 Brentford 2, Birmingham 2 Hull 1, Bolton 1 Luton Town 2, Bristol City 1 West Ham 0, Eastleigh 1 Newport County 3. COPA DEL REY (Last 16): Getafe 1 Sevilla 3, Athletic Bilbao 2 Alaves 0, Tenerife 0 Mallorca 1. AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS Group D: Burkina Faso 1 Mauritania 0. Group E: Tunisia 0 Namibia 1, Mali 2 South Africa 0. ASIAN CUP Group F: Saudi Arabia 2 Oman 1, Thailand 2 Kyrgyzstan 0. Malaysia’s Faiz Jali (centre) in action against Great Britain yesterday. – MHC @ X (formerly Twitter) ‘Harimau Malaya still have chance to qualify for knockouts’
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] SCAN ME THURSDAY | JAN 18, 2024 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper McLaren’s long-term plan -Story - on page 29 Story on page 27 ‘Win AFCON and I’m done!’ I NCOMING minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has told Manchester United supporter groups he is there to help take the club back to the top rather than make money. After a frustrating, prolonged 13- month process, it was announced on Christmas Eve that the Ineos chairman had agreed to buy a 25% stake from the Glazer family. Ratcliffe receives control of football operations at the Premier League club under the terms of a deal that he told reporters he expects to be approved by mid-February. The 71-year-old watched Monday’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Tottenham at Old Trafford, where he returned the following day to engage with fan representatives and local leaders. Ratcliffe met members of the club’s Fans’ Advisory Board and leaders of the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (Must), before holding a video meeting with the larger Fans’ Forum. “His main message was that everything at United needs to be ruthlessly focused on creating winning teams on the field – something we are sure all fans will agree on,” Must said. “He also expressed the view that he views our club as a ‘community asset’ and stressed that his purpose in taking a share in United is not to make money. “We were able to set out to Sir Jim what we think the key priorities are – a clear plan to get back to the top, putting in place a football structure with the right people in the right roles; an investment plan in both the teams and the stadium; and building a genuine and strong partnership with fans that supports success. “We hope the discussion is the start of an ongoing dialogue both with Sir Jim and his team. “We all know the journey back for our club is not a short one – and the proof of the pudding will be in the eating. But most fans agree that the signals Ineos has sent in the last few weeks are encouraging.” The meeting with Must lasted more than an hour, with Ratcliffe joined by Sir Dave Brailsford, the director of sport at Ineos, Jean Claude Blanc, Ineos Sport chief executive, and senior United officials. Certain topics were off the table as the deal awaits approval, but Must “felt he was as open as he could be within those rules”. The trust’s chair JD Deitch posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that it was a good meeting and that Ratcliffe’s team “get it” but “proof will be action, not words”. A fan representative at one of the meetings told the PA news agency that Ineos made it clear the immediate priority is fixing things on the field during “really positive discussions”. There was a sense that Ratcliffe’s team will be “able to hit the ground running” once the deal is ratified, with player trading pinpointed by Ineos as an area requiring improvement. “I think the impression of everybody in all the meetings was it was actually amazing and unprecedented for us at Manchester United that the owner of the club spent that much time,” the fan representative said. “More fan engagement in one day than the Glazers have done in 20 years. That’s just a fact. “I’m sure it’s not accidental. It’s a very clear signal of a change in how the club will be and I get the sense that they are not waiting for the details of the deal to go through. I get the sense that the work has started already.” Ratcliffe’s arrival was also welcomed by tyre-making giant Apollo, a key United sponsor. Managing director Neeraj Kanwar believes the Ineos chief will breathe new energy into the Premier League club. “I think it will do good,” Kanwar told the Daily Mail. “Some new oxygen has come in with Ratcliffe. Let’s see, it’s too early to say what’s going to happen with the team. “But always when some new infusion of oxygen comes in, you might see something new in the club which is what’s required I think.” – The Independent █ BY SIMON PEACH -Story on page 30 Six job options for Mourinho Encouraging start Ratcliffe tells fans Man Utd must be ‘ruthlessly focused’ on success